Patch test tracker
Trying a new cleanser, serum or cream? Test it on a small spot first, log what your skin does at each check-in, and get calendar reminders so you don't lose count.
Follows the American Academy of Dermatology's home method. Not a medical test and not medical advice.
No tests yet. Start one with the form; it is saved in this browser only.
How to patch test at home
The AAD method. Apply the product to a quarter-sized spot where it won't be rubbed or washed off, such as the underside of your arm or the bend of your elbow. Use your normal amount, twice a day, for 7 to 10 days. For a rinse-off product, leave it on for five minutes or as long as the directions say, then rinse.
What counts as a reaction. The AAD's examples are red, itchy or swollen skin. If that happens, wash the product off gently, stop using it, and soothe the skin with a cool compress or petroleum jelly; see a dermatologist if a severe reaction doesn't improve. Retinol and glycolic acid can cause temporary irritation, especially on sensitive skin.
Using the tracker. Enter the product, spot and first application, then pick a plan. The AAD plan gives one check-in a day; the short plan checks at 24, 48 and 72 hours, which can miss reactions that need repeated use. Log each check-in as no change, mild or reaction. Download the calendar file for reminders, with optional twice-daily application prompts.
Not the same as clinical patch testing. To find the cause of an allergy, a dermatology department tapes small amounts of test substances to your back for 48 hours and checks the skin at later visits (BAD). A home test only tells you how your skin takes one product.
Tests stay in this browser. Export them to keep a copy or move them to another device.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). How to test skin care products. aad.org
- BAD. Patch testing (patient information leaflet). bad.org.uk
- British Association of Dermatologists (BAD). Contact dermatitis (patient information leaflet). bad.org.uk
- NHS. Anaphylaxis. nhs.uk
Questions
How long should a skincare patch test take?
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests applying the product to the same small spot twice a day for 7 to 10 days. If you have no reaction such as red, itchy or swollen skin after that, it says you can go ahead and use the product.
Is a 24 to 72 hour check enough?
It is quicker, and some product directions ask for a short test, but a few days of single checks can miss a reaction that only appears after repeated use. That is why the tracker's default plan follows the AAD's 7 to 10 days of twice-daily use.
Where should I do the test?
The AAD suggests a quarter-sized spot where the product won't be rubbed or washed away, such as the underside of your arm or the inside of your elbow. Keep to the same spot for the whole test.
What should I do if my skin reacts?
Gently wash the product off as soon as you can and stop using it. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can relieve the skin, and a dermatologist can help if a severe reaction doesn't improve. Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing, needs emergency help straight away.
Is my data stored anywhere?
Only in this browser's local storage. Nothing is uploaded. Export makes a JSON file you can keep or import on another device, and Clear all deletes every test from this browser.